Looking just like as a peaceful and scenic fishing village along Cornwall’s coastline, this destination may seem idyllic, but its supernatural heritage demands attention.

Boscastle has earned recognition as Britain’s equivalent to Salem, boasting an extensive and complex history intertwined with sorcery and the occult.

The legends and folklore surrounding this enchanting village are abundant – so much so that it became home to the world’s most extensive collection of witchcraft-related artefacts.

It all originated from a group of women living in the locality, commonly known as ‘witches’ or the ‘wise women’, who practised healing and performed rituals to offer protection against misfortune.

Their influence was believed to be powerful throughout the community and profoundly affected the lives of those they assisted.

An ancient legend portrays the Boscastle witches as ‘selling wind’ to sailors, enabling them to increase their speed.

They would tie three knots in a rope for ship captains, with the mythology suggesting the first knot unleashed a breeze, the second a powerful wind and the third a huge gale.

These narratives have shaped the village’s identity, yet beyond its mysterious folklore, it remains an English gem, frequently overshadowed by its better-known neighbouring settlements.

Offering spectacular vistas, picturesque rambles and a postcard-worthy harbour, there’s far more beneath the surface.

The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic

Nestled at the village’s centre sits The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic, which functions independently, separate from the National Trust that safeguards much of the surrounding region.

The museum reopens each April for the seasonal period, before closing once more in October.

However, it happens to house the globe’s most extensive collection of witchcraft-related artefacts, established by Cecil Williamson, whose obsession with the subject consumed his existence.

The attraction opened its doors in 1962, with the location deliberately selected for its mystical connections.

He claimed: “Three miles away from this spot you can find this prehistoric maze stone carved into a living rock face, proof that from ancient times man and his magic-making with the world of spirit were active in this area.”

Following a visit to this enlightening museum, one visitor wrote on TripAdvisor: “I visited once as a child, and it terrified me, so I knew I was in for a treat returning all these years later.”

They added: “Truly a magical experience, and we felt renewed upon leaving – especially since the sun had come out!”.

“It’s one of our favourite days of our holiday, and we even spent a pound to turn the fortune wheel in which I asked, ‘When are we getting married?’ It told me to be patient, and…just two days later, we got engaged!”

Notably, the museum previously displayed the remains of Joan Wytte, known as the Fighting Fairy Woman of Bodmin, for many years.

Her skeleton was exhibited and once served as an object of mockery after she was wrongfully branded a witch during the 18th century and imprisoned in Bodmin Jail.

After new ownership took control, they determined she warranted a dignified burial following years of mistreatment, and her remains are no longer on public display.

The harbour and coastal area

Witchcraft history aside, Boscastle possesses its own enchantment, boasting incomparable vistas of the Cornish shoreline. The picturesque harbour stands as the centrepiece, remaining under National Trust stewardship.

The ideal way to appreciate it is through the well-loved and straightforward walking trail, called the Boscastle Harbour walk, which guides you on a tranquil journey through the settlement.

Along the way, beginning from Boscastle car park, you’ll encounter the historic harbour, the waterway, and the renowned blowhole.

Upon finishing the walk, one traveller shared: “We absolutely loved Boscastle, walking both sides of the harbour and off into the hills, visiting the local church, and just taking in the wonderful views.

“Proper rugged Cornish coastline just needed Poldark riding across the cliff tops.”

The harbour has been a crucial part of the trading centre since the 16th century, with its walls dating back to 1584. It was formerly utilised for importing coal and lime and exporting slate, until the arrival of the railway in Cornwall in 1893.

Subsequently, it evolved into a significant fishing port, primarily used for procuring seafood for the local economy and now, naturally, tourism.

“We have been returning to Boscastle as a family for over 25 years and the harbour remains awe-inspiring,” one visitor declared.

They added: “The area is owned by the National Trust so it hasn’t been spoiled by overdevelopment. A stunning harbour and a brief stroll up to the left along the cliffs offers a truly spectacular view.”

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